Entry requirementsThe following are required for admission to the program:
* A high school diploma or GED
* Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment
* Typing proficiency of 30 words per minute or concurrent enrollment in OFTECH-103, Keyboarding
Course descriptionOverview — The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) estimates that by 2015, 269.5 million people worldwide will have jobs created by the event/tourism industry, accounting for one in over 11.2 jobs.
The Meeting and Event Management associate degree program provides graduates with the knowledge and skills needed for entry-level positions or advancement in event management, meeting planning, special event marketing, corporate and convention sales, hotel marketing and sales career employment. Festivals and events are among the fastest-growing segments of the meeting industry. A career in the meeting and event planning industry offers many exciting and challenging employment opportunities. The labor-intensive event industry needs motivated people of all ages and backgrounds.
Double Degree Option — Add four to seven courses, and earn associate degrees in both Hotel Hospitality Management and Meeting and Event Management. See your program advisor for details.
Career Outlook — Career opportunities in the meeting industry are limitless. Meeting planning is a growing profession. Many associations and corporations are hiring people whose job responsibilities are to arrange, plan and conduct meetings. Employment opportunities continue to grow in the convention and visitor industry. Convention and visitor's bureaus require managers, research directors, information specialists, public relations staff and sales personnel. The meeting planning industry also includes working with festivals and events. Numerous jobs can be found in tourism offices and information centers.
Program Learning Outcomes — The skills employers will be looking for in graduates include the ability to:
Develop meeting and event proposals (RFP)
Apply your business computer skills
Manage funding for on-site meetings
Create program planning outlines
Develop a realistic and comprehensive marketing budget
Learn how to develop a volunteer management program
Understand the role of a convention and visitors bureau (CVB)
Recognize the different types of supplier contracts
Identify legal issues concerning meetings and events
Use good negotiation techniques in the meeting management environment
Describe foods and beverages for events
Identify the factors for set-up of meeting space
Understand the importance of planning for on-site emergencies
This program will transfer to one or more four-year institutions.
Possible Careers:
Activity Director
Amusement Park Supervisor
Chamber of Commerce Director
Communications Specialist
Convention and Visitors Bureau Director
Convention Services Manager
Corporate Travel Manager
Destination Wedding Planner
Director of Special Attractions
Entertainment Manager
Festival Event Manager
Food and Beverage Catering Manager
Meeting Planner
Museum Guide
Recreation Director
Resort Sales
Special Event Coordinator